In the bustling halls of Harris College, there is a quiet determination in the stride of social work alum Lauren Latiolais ’24 MSW. With triple undergraduate degrees in international relations, counterterrorism and intelligence studies, and technology, the retired master sergeant of the U.S. Air Force now stands at the crossroads of two worlds: the structured discipline of military service and the compassionate embrace of the social work field.
I couldn't let it go,” Latiolais reflects. “This is a real social crisis.”
Her journey, marked by deployments and diplomatic missions, has led her to a profound realization: that the battles we fight are not solely won on the front lines but in the communities we build and support.
A seasoned veteran with nearly 15 years of military service, Latiolais’s journey has been defined by her role as a cryptologic language analyst. Throughout her career, she embarked on two deployments in Afghanistan, honing her skills as a targeter. However, it was her time as an attaché at the embassy in India that profoundly impacted her perspective.
With a background in international relations and intelligence studies, Latiolais just earned her master of social work in May, and she brings a unique perspective to the field.
Winning wars,” she said, “is a social endeavor.”
It is an attitude born not only from her time as a cryptologic language analyst but also from her deployments and embassy work, where she witnessed firsthand the interconnectedness of global challenges.
She firmly believes that to effect lasting change, one must address the root causes of conflict, focusing on social welfare and development.
“People need jobs, they need water, they need something to live for,” she said, reflecting on her experiences.
Her time in the military wasn’t just about combat; it was a profound education. It made her extremely aware of resource scarcity and the looming threat of global warming, issues she sees as increasingly pressing in today’s world, and passions she brought forward to the social work program.
However, it was her struggle with mental health upon returning home that fueled her passion for change.
You can only carry so much on your back before you break,” she said. It is a sentiment that drives her commitment to developing resilience programs, particularly in the prevention of mental health crises among the youth.
“These programs can change absolutely everything for a person,” Latiolais said.
Latiolais’s ambition extends beyond mere theoretical development. She envisions a comprehensive curriculum, tailored to instill resilience in youth. Her goal is to persuade the state of Texas to adopt and implement this program across schools statewide. She aspires to complete the transition into a Ph.D. program, blending research and policy to drive real-world impact. For her, it is not just about academia; it's about hands-on application, empowering children with the tools they need to navigate life's challenges.
At TCU, Latiolais immersed herself in a curriculum that goes beyond textbooks and lectures. From delving into the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders to researching therapeutic methods and program evaluations, her training is rigorous and intense.
“If people only knew what social workers went through in their education,” Latiolais said.
But for Latiolais, it is not work, it is passion. It is all part of the journey toward creating tangible change.
What drew me to the social work program at TCU was the opportunities,” Latiolais said. “The choices and energy the professors give us are so inspiring.”
From research assistantships to field placements, the university offers a dynamic environment where students can actively shape their educational experience. Latiolais speaks fondly of the professors who have guided her, emphasizing the importance of their diverse expertise and unwavering support.
Latiolais stated that one of the main reasons why TCU’s social work program was so enticing to her is how willing professors and advisors were to talk to her before she even applied. The program provided resources and faculty that helped her get through the tough process of applying to graduate programs.
If a professor is willing to take time out of their day to talk to you as a potential student, imagine how much time they will put in when you are an actual student,” Latiolais said.
Her dedication extends beyond the classroom, as shown by her internship with Tarrant County Juvenile Services. As their first social work student intern in years, Latiolais embraced the opportunity to apply her knowledge in a real-world setting, working within the Texas model of juvenile justice reform.
Reflecting on her journey, Latiolais offers advice to those considering a career in social work.
“It's okay if you don't know what you want to do,” she reassures. "But you need to know where your heart is."
For her, social work isn’t just a profession, it’s a calling — an opportunity to bridge the gap between crisis and resilience, between conflict and compassion. As she looks ahead to her future, Latiolais remains steady in her mission to effect meaningful change in the lives around her.
Every field needs a social worker,” she asserts.
In her unwavering dedication, we see not only the resilience of a veteran but the promise of a brighter, more compassionate tomorrow.